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Federal Shutdown 2025: Alternative Assistance Programs

County Program Impact Status
SNAP (Food Assistance)

Starting November 1, 2025, the refill of SNAP EBT benefits will be delayed until Congress passes program funding. SNAP households should not come to 158 Pearl Street unless they need to drop off additional paperwork or are scheduled for an interview.  The Department of Social Services will contact SNAP households directly with emergency food resource information starting next week.

Erie County Department of Social Services advises:

  • All households should plan to seek alternative assistance programs to fulfill their food needs.
  • All households should continue to submit paperwork for their applications and recertifications as normal.
  • All new applications will be accepted as normal, and benefits will be issued when the shutdown is ended.
HEAP (Energy Assistance)

Due to the lack of a federal budget, including an appropriation for the 2025-26 program year, the opening date for accepting applications for the HEAP Regular (Heating) benefit component has been delayed until further notice. HEAP program can not open until Congress passes federal funding.

Erie County Department of Social Services advises:

  • Households facing emergency shut offs can apply in person for utility arrears benefits to avoid utility shutoffs. See details below.
Agency/Department Food and Nutrition Assistance
Department of Social Services

Food Pantry Referrals – All Households in emergency need of food assistance can request a food pantry referral.

  • Request by-phone – Referral will be mailed to your household
    ECDSS SNAP Call Center (716) 858-7239 or by calling 211 or by texting their zip code to 898-211
Department for the Aging

Stay Fit Dining Program – All 60+ Households can register to participate.
Department for the Aging

Frozen Congregate Meals Program – All 60+ Households can register to participate.
Department for the Aging

Home Delivered Meals Program – All 60+ Households apply for assistance.

Help Finding Food Pantry Locations for Food or Donations

Feedmore – Food Pantry Locator Search

Feedmore – Mobile Food Pantry Schedule

211WNY – Food Pantry List for Erie County

Mental Health Resources 

Uncertainty around federal benefits and a lack of basic resources like food and heat can take a toll on personal mental health. If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, call 988. The 988 Lifeline is a locally staffed hotline for mental health concerns, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to. Response-services are available 24/7, and translators are available. 

Domestic Violence 

Find Domestic Violence resources and support at erie.gov/dv. The New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline number is 1-800-942-6906, and has trained counselors. 211 can also connect residents to local resources.  

Alternative Assistance Programs

Agency/Department Home Energy and Utility Arrears Assistance
Department of Social Services

Utility Arrears Assistance – Households facing emergency shut offs can apply in person for utility arrears benefits to avoid utility shutoffs.
Department of Environment and Planning

ECLIPSE Community Solar – Qualified Low-Income Households can save 10% on electric utility bills.

Other languages outlining alternative assistance options in Erie County  

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